Café Papon

Right in the middle of the Old Town next to the Town Hall, this café-restaurant seems to have a rather mythical status in Geneva thanks to its long history (it opened in 1808) and its status as the café of choice for Swiss politicians throughout the ages. But this isn’t a fusty, old-fashioned kind of place. Since its renovation and reopening in 2005 under the baton of two dynamic local chefs, Papon has complemented its historical roots – evident in the beautiful stone cellar in which it is located – with modern Swiss flair. The menus draw on local, seasonal produce and change every couple of weeks. A well-priced set menu of the day draws in local office workers, as does the quiet and sunny outdoor terrace which leads on to the leafy promenade overlooking pretty Bastions park. Book ahead to get a seat outside in summer.